24MarImportant Things to Consider When Installing Attic Insulation

For homeowners installing attic insulation in Toronto, the benefits are felt during the cold of winter and heat of summer. Clearly, indoor comfort is measurably improved when attic insulation is properly installed. But beyond comfort, a well-insulated attic reduces annual energy consumption and therefore reduces energy costs for heating and air conditioning.

With attic insulation, the best results are realized with a professional installation. However, it’s still important for homeowners to understand some of the basics. This will allow for better decision-making about product options and installation approaches. To be sure, a DIY installation should be discouraged, mainly because there’s so much that can go wrong.

Insulation is Designed to Slow “Heat Transfer”

Insulation materials are designed to slow down “heat transfer”. In the winter, insulation slows down the rate at which indoor heat escapes through the walls and attic. In summer, insulation will slow down the rate of heat coming into the house. Most insulation materials will not block airflow – additional materials will be required to stop undesirable airflow.

Air Sealing is Required Prior to Insulation

When installing attic insulation in Toronto, it’s important to have the space properly air sealed. Sealing air leakage is essential in ensuring insulation performance. Attics and roofs have significant points of air leakage, and these must be effectively sealed before insulation materials are installed. Without air sealing, attic insulation will not perform as advertised.

A Vapour Barrier Can Be Very Helpful in Attics

A vapour barrier, designed to control air moisture, can be a valuable component of the attic insulation “system”. In regions where summers are humid and winters are frigid, a vapour barrier is a common installation. The idea is to control air moisture, which can compromise insulation performance. For attic insulation in Toronto, a vapour barrier would be advised.

Higher R-Value Means Better Heat Resistance

Every insulation product has an R-Value that reflects its thermal resistance. A professional installation contractor will recommend an R-Value that best meets the needs of the home. In the attic and roof cavity, this will vary according to the product being installed as well as the size and layout of the space. (Products with the same R-Value don’t perform equally).

Different Rroducts Have Different Advantages

With the benefit of a professional insulation contractor, homeowners can choose the best insulation product and the most cost-effective installation. Blown-in cellulose, for example, has proven to be very effective in the attic. While the R-Values provide satisfactory thermal resistance, proper air sealing and air ventilation are still required to complete the “system”.

In Toronto and throughout the GTA, EcoComfort Insulation recommends blown-in cellulose insulation for the attic and roof cavity. Made from plant cellulose and recycled paper, this product is specially treated to counter animals, insects and animals – it’s ideal in the attic.

Homeowners considering attic insulation in Toronto can arrange for a FREE inspection of the attic (and price estimate) by calling one of our in-house attic experts at 416-333-4554.

Attic insulation doesn’t necessarily have to be removed when it gets old. When quality insulation has been installed, it doesn’t become obsolete just because it’s old. Homeowners concerned about the performance of their attic insulation may be dealing with a variety of issues.